Introduction
If you’re looking for a deliciously creamy and flavorful chicken dish, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds. Combining tender chicken breasts with a rich garlic Parmesan sauce, this crockpot meal is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for a comforting dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that feels luxurious and satisfying.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, cubed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
Prep Time
Preparation for this recipe will take about 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time in the crockpot is approximately 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. In total, including prep time, you will spend about 4 to 6 hours and 15 minutes preparing this dish. This recipe yields enough creamy chicken for 4 to 6 servings.
Enjoy this comforting meal served over rice, pasta, or alongside your favorite vegetables!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Season the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, and dried parsley. Ensure the spices are evenly distributed for maximum flavor.
Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the butter. Allow it to melt completely, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds or until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Prepare the Broth
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Stir the mixture to combine and bring it to a simmer for about 2 minutes. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, adding depth to the flavor.
Transfer Chicken to Crockpot
Carefully transfer the seasoned chicken breasts into the crockpot, making sure they are evenly spaced.
Add Broth and Garlic Mixture
Pour the broth and garlic mixture from the skillet over the chicken breasts in the crockpot, ensuring they are well-covered.
Mix Cream Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and cubed cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until well combined and smooth.
Pour Cream Mixture
Pour the heavy cream mixture over the chicken breasts in the crockpot, spreading it evenly across the top.
Set Cooking Time
Cover the crockpot with the lid. Set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, depending on your preference, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Remove Chicken
Once the cooking time is complete, use tongs to remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot and set them aside on a plate.
Stir the Sauce
Stir the sauce in the crockpot to combine all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring that the cream cheese and Parmesan have melted and achieved a creamy consistency.
Return Chicken to Crockpot
Return the chicken breasts to the crockpot, spooning the creamy sauce over the top to ensure they are well coated.
Serve the Dish
Serve the chicken with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over rice, pasta, or vegetables of your choice.
Notes
Chicken Selection
For best results, use fresh or thawed chicken breasts. Avoid using frozen chicken directly in the crockpot as it may not cook evenly.
Cooking Times
Cooking times may vary based on the thickness of the chicken breasts and the efficiency of your crockpot. Always check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving again.
Customization
Feel free to customize the dish by adding vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms to the crockpot for added flavor and nutrients. You can also adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Cook techniques
Seasoning Chicken
Before cooking, it’s essential to season the chicken thoroughly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried basil, and dried parsley. This enhances the flavor and creates a savory profile for the dish.
Sautéing Garlic
Sauté garlic in melted butter until fragrant before adding liquid ingredients. This method releases the essential oils and brings out the rich aroma of garlic, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Making a Broth Base
After sautéing garlic, deglaze the skillet with chicken broth. This process involves stirring to dissolve the browned bits at the bottom of the pan, which adds depth to the broth base.
Using a Crockpot
Cooking the chicken in a crockpot allows for slow and even cooking, resulting in tender and juicy chicken. It also encourages flavors to meld beautifully over an extended cooking time.
Combining Cream Sauces
Mix heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese in a separate bowl before adding them to the crockpot. This ensures the cheese melts evenly and creates a creamy sauce without lumps.
Stirring the Sauce
After the chicken is cooked, stir the sauce in the crockpot to combine all ingredients. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, creamy consistency before serving.
Serving Recommendations
Serve the chicken with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce over rice, pasta, or vegetables. This pairing enhances the dish’s versatility and complements the flavors nicely.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used as a substitute. They will add more flavor and a slightly different texture to the dish.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely, you can prepare and season the chicken the night before, store it in the refrigerator, and cook it in the crockpot the next day.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative, but keep in mind that the sauce’s richness may slightly change.
How do I store leftover chicken?
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, the cooked chicken and sauce can be frozen. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken is a delightful dish that brings a rich and savory flavor to your table. The combination of tender chicken breasts and a luscious sauce makes it perfect for any occasion. Serve it over your favorite starch or vegetables for a satisfying meal that is sure to impress family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Herb Chicken Pasta
Toss the creamy garlic Parmesan chicken with cooked pasta for a delicious and hearty dinner.
Chicken Alfredo Bake
Combine the creamy chicken and sauce with cooked pasta and top with extra cheese, then bake until golden and bubbly.
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Mix the shredded chicken and creamy sauce with cooked rice, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for a comforting casserole.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use the creamy chicken mixture as a filling for halved bell peppers and bake until the peppers are tender.
Chicken Parmesan Skewers
Thread pieces of the cooked chicken onto skewers with cherry tomatoes and zucchini, drizzle with the creamy sauce, and grill for a flavorful twist.
Vegetable Stir-Fry with Creamy Chicken
Add steamed or sautéed vegetables to the creamy chicken for a colorful and nutritious meal.
